Can Rabbits Eat Cabbage?
Photo by liebre / iStock / Getty Images Plus
If you’ve recently added a bunny to your home or you want to expand your current rabbit’s snack routine, you might be wondering, “Can rabbits eat cabbage?”
The short answer is yes. Cabbage can be a healthy addition to your rabbit’s diet, if it’s fed in moderation and prepared properly.
Like many vegetables, cabbage is packed with nutrients, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind before offering it to your adorable companion.
Always check with your veterinarian before giving your rabbit any new foods.
Can Rabbits Eat Cabbage?
Yes, rabbits can eat cabbage!
This crunchy veggie is full of nutrients that support your rabbit’s overall health. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, which boost your bunny’s immune system and help build strong bones.
However, it’s important to feed cabbage only as an occasional treat.
“Cabbage can cause excess gas in the digestive system, so it should be given in moderation,” explains Alyssa Short, DVM, a veterinarian at Greenock Farm Veterinary Hospital, in Midland, North Carolina.
Rabbits thrive on a foundation of hay, fresh water, and a small portion of pellets, with vegetables like cabbage serving as a supplement.
Recommended Products
Also, although most of the cabbage plant is safe, your rabbit might not eat the stem because of the tougher texture.
“Most rabbits prefer not to eat the stemmy portions of the plant,” says Dr. Short. But the leafy parts are usually enjoyed.
The stems can also be harder for rabbits to digest, so many pet parents will peel the cabbage and cut the leaves when feeding to make snacking easier.
Is Cabbage Good for Rabbits?
Cabbage boasts the following health benefits for rabbits:
- Good source of antioxidants and fiber: “Cabbage’s antioxidants and fiber help your rabbit keep a good weight and a brilliant coat,” says Helle Brandrup, a veterinarian at Neurogan Health, in San Diego, California.
- Good for hydration: The high-water content in cabbage can help keep bunnies hydrated, adds Dr. Brandrup.
- Good for their teeth: Cabbage, like other veggies, can give your rabbit something to chew on, which is important for their dental health. “Rabbit teeth continuously grow, so as they continue to munch, they can wear those teeth down and reduce the risk of future dental disease,” says Dr. Short.
However, while cabbage can be good for rabbits, it’s not the best green available.
Is Cabbage Bad for Rabbits?
While cabbage is generally safe for rabbits, it does carry some risks when fed in excess.
“Risks of too much cabbage include an accumulation of gas in the digestive system, which can lead to health issues like disruptions in their gut biome (also known as dysbiosis), diarrhea, and weight loss,” Dr. Short warns.
A rabbit’s primary diet should consist of hay, like timothy or fescue, to maintain a healthy gut and support their overall well-being.
How To Safely Feed Cabbage to Rabbits
The first thing to do when preparing some cabbage for a crunchy snack is to remove the outer part if it is damaged or wilted.
Cabbage should be washed well to remove any dirt or impurities. (Consider using a salad spinner.)
When preparing cabbage for your rabbit to consume, it’s best to discard the stem, as this denser part is often hard to chew.
Chop up cabbage into small, bite-size pieces to make it manageable for your rabbit to eat. Consider scattering it around the cage to facilitate exercise while your bunny munches on a yummy snack.
How Much Cabbage Can My Rabbit Eat?
Cabbage can be a regular part of your bunny’s diet, but in small portions.
Dr. Brandrup recommends giving your rabbit one or two small cabbage leaves twice a week at most.
“Their delicate digestive systems aren’t able to manage much more,” she explains. If your rabbit is particularly little, you might need to tweak that and feed even less.
My Rabbit Ate Too Much Cabbage—What Do I Do?
Too much cabbage can result in an upset stomach in rabbits. Gas, bloating, and diarrhea are common symptoms of overconsumption.
The high fiber content in cabbage is what causes upset to their sensitive digestive systems. Excessive cabbage consumption can also lead to thyroid problems in rabbits, since it contains goitrogens (compounds that interfere with normal thyroid function). They can cause goiter or an enlarged thyroid gland in rabbits.
If your rabbit shows any signs of overconsumption of cabbage, they should see their vet right away for an exam.
FAQs About Rabbits and Cabbage
Q: Can my rabbit eat raw cabbage?
A: Yes, rabbits can eat raw cabbage. Raw cabbage is better for them than cooked cabbage, as it’s easier for them to digest.
Q: Can cabbage kill rabbits?
A: Cabbage is generally very safe for rabbits in moderation but feeding too much can lead to digestive issues such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea, which can be dangerous.
Q: Can rabbits eat cabbage leaves?
A: Yes, rabbits can eat cabbage leaves. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly and consider cutting them up into easily chewable pieces if your bunny is on the smaller side.
